Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of water birds in Washington, where diverse species call the state’s lush, aquatic habitats their home. Washington’s vast waterways, from the Pacific coastline to the serene inland lakes and rivers, play host to a colorful palette of avian life.
Washington water birds
| Water Bird Species | Frequency in Washington | Specific Locations in Washington |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Common | Columbia River, McNary National Wildlife Refuge |
| Brown Pelican | Common | Coastal areas like Cape Flattery |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Common | Puget Sound, Columbia River |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Throughout the state, particularly in wetlands |
| Great Egret | Common | Lower Columbia River, Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge |
| Snowy Egret | Less Common | Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge |
| Green Heron | Common | Throughout the state in wetland areas |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Uncommon | Lower Columbia River, Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge |
| Mallard | Very Common | Statewide in various habitats, from urban parks to wetlands |
| Wood Duck | Common | Throughout the state, particularly in wooded swamps |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Common | Eastern Washington, especially wetlands |
| Northern Pintail | Common | Eastern Washington, especially wetlands |
| Redhead | Less Common | Eastern Washington, McNary National Wildlife Refuge |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Statewide, especially in freshwater ponds |
| Bufflehead | Common | Throughout the state, especially in inland waters |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Statewide, particularly in forested wetlands |
| Common Merganser | Common | Throughout the state, particularly in large lakes and rivers |
| Ruddy Duck | Less Common | Eastern Washington, particularly at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge |
| American Coot | Very Common | Statewide, especially in marshes and open water |
| Sandhill Crane | Less Common | Eastern Washington, especially at Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge |
| American Wigeon | Common | Throughout the state, particularly in open water |
| Osprey | Common | Throughout the state, especially near large bodies of water |
| Common Loon | Less Common | Northern Washington, especially in Ferry County |
| Pied-Billed Grebe | Common | Throughout the state, especially in marshes and ponds |
| American Bittern | Less Common | Eastern Washington, especially at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge |
| Marbled Murrelet | Less Common | Western Washington, particularly in old-growth forests and nearshore waters |
Water Bird Species Found in Washington
Where to Spot Washington’s Water Birds
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Olympia: A major stopover for birds migrating along the Pacific Flyway, this refuge offers the chance to see a diverse range of water birds such as Northern Pintails, American Wigeons, and Great Blue Herons.
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Olympia: This large estuary restoration project has attracted many species of waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds, making it an ideal location for birdwatching.
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, Ridgefield: A major wintering area for the dusky Canada goose, this refuge is also home to a large variety of other water birds like the Great Blue Heron, American Bittern, and many species of ducks.
Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Glenwood: A haven for waterfowl and shorebirds, the refuge offers the chance to see Sandhill Cranes, Mallards, and Canada Geese among others.
Ocean Shores: This coastal city’s beaches, particularly the area around the North Jetty, offer opportunities to see a variety of seabirds and shorebirds, including gulls, terns, pelicans, and sandpipers.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| Montana Water Birds | Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge, Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge |
| South Dakota Water Birds | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, LaCreek National Wildlife Refuge, Waubay National Wildlife Refuge |
| Nebraska Water Birds | Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge |
| Colorado Water Birds | Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge, Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, Barr Lake State Park |
| Utah Water Birds | Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve, Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge |
| Idaho Water Birds | Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, Coeur d'Alene River Wildlife Management Area |
FAQS About Waterbirds in Washington
What is the black water bird in Puget Sound?
One prominent black water bird commonly found in Puget Sound is the Double-crested Cormorant. This bird is characterized by its black plumage, long neck, and a hooked bill. It’s often seen perched with its wings spread out to dry after diving for fish.
What is a black water bird in Washington state?
In Washington state, the American Coot is another black water bird frequently observed. Although often mistaken for a duck, the American Coot has a distinct white bill and is more closely related to sandhill cranes. They are often seen in freshwater habitats, paddling around and diving for aquatic vegetation.
What are the black birds in the water in Seattle?
In Seattle, especially around areas like Lake Union and Lake Washington, one can often see Double-crested Cormorants and American Coots. Both these black birds are commonly found in the water, diving for food or swimming. The cormorants, in particular, are easily recognizable when they perch with wings spread to dry after a dive.
In Washington, the Fish and Wildlife Service oversees the protection of multiple species, including fish-eating birds and marine birds. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for seven species of marine birds, among which are those with chestnut brown heads and black and white tails. The green-winged teal, recognized by its distinct coloring, thrives here. These birds rely on the marine habitats of the state, where diverse prey species sustain them.